Last weekend I taught my first international karate seminar in Sindelfingen (Baden-Wurttemberg), Deutschland. I am writing this as I fly back home to Japan.
- Switzerland
- Poland
- France
- UK
- Hungary
- Austria
- Netherlands
Organized primarily by Thomas Heinlein Sensei, Andy Fields
Sensei, and their respective dojo team members. This resulted in an event where
I could ‘purely focus on teaching and training’, and also have a chance to
relax. In particular Thomas Sensei kindly ensured this and made sure I also had
a wonderful time. This of course contributed to my recovery times between
sessions and, now, as I begin my voyage home to Japan: not the usual aches and
pains! So I’m very thankful!!!
As it was my first time in Sindelfingen, I focused on the
core underpinning of budo bujutsu karate 基本
(Kihon); nevertheless, the focal points were arranged uniquely. This is
representative of future seminars where I will share much more untaught
aspects.
On this subject, the kata I taught a version of 浪手 (Roshu) never taught
openly before. It differs from the commonly practiced versions and is the main
rendition of the kata. The seminar participants, therefore, experienced the
version of Roshu only practiced and taught behind closed doors in Japan, and
only by a handful of instructors. Again, I will continue sharing kata, and
their respective applications, in future seminars.
The Kumite practice was focused on correct 間合 (maai) and control. My
main point was that “control is not reaching the surface of the target (at
extension) but, rather having reached the target with full commitment of the
hips and “…having the option of optimally penetrating the target”: in other
words, perfectly positioned for a potentially finishing blow”. In addition to
this—and directly complimentary—I also sampled the classical Shotokan 応用技 (Oyo-waza), which are
the classical and highly effective self-defense techniques from the kata.
In sum, the focus was karate as budo for holistic health and
art; moreover, as bujutsu, for effective ‘reliable self-defense’, which is the
essence of ‘true karate shotokan’.
It was wonderful to catch up with old friends and make new
friendships as well. The ‘genki’ atmosphere of the seminar, I believe, was a
result of Thomas, Andy and their respective groups warmness. I must say it’s
great to simply train with great people, improve in skill, share some smiles
and have no politics. Only Authentic Budo/Bujutsu Karate! This is imperative in
my mission of sharing Asai Tetsuhiko Shuseki Shihan’s advanced Shotokan
techniques, exercises, additional kata, and applications: the extension of
‘JKA-style karate’. Very big things to come, so, until next time, 押忍!!!
Lastly, for more information on the hosts of this seminar please visit the following pages: https://www.sansaru-kai.de/ and http://www.karatesindelfingen.de/
© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2023).
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